Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Salukis to Play Night Football at McAndrew Stadium in 2002
06/03/2002 | 12:00:00 | Football
June 3, 2002
CARBONDALE, Ill. - After a 29-year absence, night football will return to McAndrew Stadium on the campus of Southern Illinois University in 2002. The Salukis will open the season with a special Thursday night game against Kentucky Wesleyan at 7 p.m. on August 29.
The athletic department, with the assistance of local electrical union IBEW 702, will install a new lighting system at the stadium this summer, athletic director Paul Kowalczyk confirmed.
Gary Roan, the business manager for IBEW 702, said numerous contractors and area construction companies are also contributing to the project.
"It's terrific to see the business community get behind such an important project for the University," Kowalczyk said.
IBEW 702 is installing the lights at no charge, saving the athletic department $100,000 on infrastructure improvements originally expected to cost $250,000.
"We're indebted to the union for their role in making this happen," Kowalczyk said. "Needless to say, we're excited about the opportunity to bring night football back to Southern Illinois."
The last night game at McAndrew was Oct. 20, 1973, when the Salukis hosted Tampa. The lighting system became inoperable the following year.
"This is great for our fans and should really help attendance," said Saluki head coach Jerry Kill. "This is a hard-hat, lunch pail community, and many people are working or taking their kids to youth leagues on Saturday afternoons."
Kill said the Aug. 29 opener will be "Union Worker's Night" in honor of the union's key role in the project. Union members and their families may purchase discounted tickets. The evening will also feature a postgame fireworks show and other festivities.
In addition to the Kentucky Wesleyan game, SIU will play three more home games at 7 p.m. this season: SE Missouri State on Sept. 7, West Virginia Tech on Sept. 21 and Northern Iowa on Oct. 12.
Season tickets are currently on-sale in the athletic ticket office and can be purchased by phone at 618-453-2000.
Individual Season Ticket Prices
Adult ($55), SIU Faculty/Staff ($50), High School & Under ($35)
Family Plan Season Tickets
Two adults and three kids in Section G ($150)
Single-Game Ticket Prices
Adult ($12*), High School & Under ($6) SIU Students (Free with valid ID)
Group Single-Game Prices
Groups of 20 or more ($6)
*Homecoming is $15 for adults
